Reconfigurable Trailer Hitch

Abstract

A trailer hitch assembly includes a shank, coupleable to a receiver carried by a towing vehicle. A ball attachment bracket is attachable to the shank. A ball assembly is receivable within the ball attachment bracket, the ball assembly capable of mating with a trailer coupler carried by a trailer to be towed. A distribution block is attachable to one or both the ball attachment bracket or the shank. The distribution block has arm socket attachments to allow coupling of a pair of arm sockets to the distribution block, each of the arm sockets capable of receiving one of a pair of spring arms attachable to the trailer to be towed. The distribution block is removable from each of the ball attachment bracket and the shank while the ball attachment bracket remains operably coupled to the shank for use as a standard ball hitch assembly.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONField of the Invention[0001]The present invention relates generally to trailer hitches for use in towing trailers with vehicles.Related Art[0002]Many different types of trailer hitches are known in the art that allow a powered vehicle to securely engage a non-powered trailer to tow the trailer behind the vehicle. Perhaps the most common trailer hitch is a simple ball mount that is attached to the frame or bumper of the vehicle. To use this hitch, a trailer is fitted with a socket that fits securely over the ball mount and includes retaining structure that prevents the socket from moving upwardly relative to the ball mount. This arrangement provides a secure connection between the trailer and the vehicle while also allowing the trailer to articulate relative to the vehicle.[0003]While such ball hitches function well, they are susceptible to problems relating to the relationship between the tongue weight of the trailer being towed and the load rating of the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a trailer hitch assembly that allows for easy attachment of a trailer to a towing vehicle. The assembly includes a shank, a ball attachment bracket, a ball assembly, and a distribution block. The distribution block can be attached to the ball attachment bracket or the shank, and includes arm sockets for attaching to the trailer. The assembly also includes pin openings in the ball attachment bracket and distribution block for easy installation. The technical effects of this invention include improved attachment of the trailer to the vehicle, increased stability, and ease of use.

Problems solved by technology

While such ball hitches function well, they are susceptible to problems relating to the relationship between the tongue weight of the trailer being towed and the load rating of the powered vehicle.

This results in a situation that is less than desirable from a safety and performance perspective.

While such weight-distribution trailer hitches are now well known, they can be very complicated and heavy devices.

However, many operators would prefer not to use these heavy and complex hitches when unnecessary, as the standard ball mount hitch is a much simpler arrangement.

Images